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Ingredients
• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons za'atar spice blend
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
- Rinse the chicken inside and out with cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken all over with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine the za'atar spice blend, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Sprinkle the za'atar mixture evenly over the chicken, rubbing it into the skin and cavity.
- Place the quartered lemon pieces and minced garlic inside the chicken cavity.
- Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body of the chicken.
- Place the chicken, breast-side up, in a roasting pan.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the juices run clear when you cut between a leg and thigh and the chicken is golden brown.
- While the chicken is roasting, prepare the pomegranate relish by combining pomegranate seeds, red onion, cilantro, mint, lemon juice, honey, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium bowl.
- Season the relish with salt and pepper to taste and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
- Serve the chicken with the pomegranate relish on the side.
Q1: Can I substitute the whole chicken with chicken parts for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can substitute the whole chicken with chicken parts, such as thighs or breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
Q2: Can I prepare the za'atar spice blend at home if I can't find it ready-made?
A2: Absolutely! You can make your own za'atar spice blend by combining equal parts of dried thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac, along with a pinch of salt. Mix well and use as directed in the recipe.
Q3: Is there a substitute for pomegranate seeds if they're not available?
A3: If you can't find pomegranate seeds, you can use fresh cranberries as a substitute for their tangy flavor. Alternatively, diced fresh strawberries can also provide a similar burst of sweetness and freshness in the relish.
